Budgeting

Sasha Souza

Alongside managing issues that arise with family and friends, budget tops a brides worry list. Sasha Souza, celebrated master bridal consultant, offers up some of her expert advice.

1. How can I cut costs and still get what I want?

If you’re crafty, you can do it yourself for a lot of your décor, such as sew your own tablecloth overlays, make your wedding favors or print your own invitations. You may also have friends who are able to provide services for your wedding, such as a friend who may be a club DJ. However, I would strongly advise against doing your own flowers or catering. Those items are best left to professionals.

2. How do I start a budget for my wedding? How do I know what my budget should be?

Don’t book a location, buy your gown or make plans until you know how much money you have to spend on the wedding. Average wedding costs in the U.S. for 150 guests are in the very high $20,000 range and even higher in the Bay Area, which can average in the low to mid $30,000. If you’re going to be on a tight budget, reduce your guest count, choose a day of the week that is not a Saturday and look for a location that has all-inclusive costs (such as they own all the tables/chairs/tabletops) which will help you stay in budget. You can find many sample budget calculators online which can help you with standard percentages of different vendors in relation to your budget.

3. How do I know if I should get a wedding planner?

Everybody needs some form of a planner, whether it’s day-of or partial service or full service. There are many types of planners in different price points so that everyone can find one that they can afford.

For information about Sasha Souza Events, visit sashasouzaevents.com.

Subscribe today and get
6 issues for only $9.95!

Newsletter